Two Rhode Island men charged in connection with shooting, violent assault, near lounge

Providence, RI – The Providence Police Department has charged two men in connection with a shooting and violent assault that occurred on June 7, 2026, near Paris Lounge at 375 Smith Street. 

According to police, at approximately 6:45 p.m., officers assigned to the Neighborhood Response Team were conducting directed patrols focused on unauthorized car meets, which have been associated with multiple violent incidents throughout the city. 

“This incident began as a personal dispute but escalated into a dangerous act of violence that put others at risk,” said Provide Police Chief Oscar Perez. “I commend our Neighborhood Response Team and detectives for their swift response and thorough investigation, which led to these arrests. The Providence Police Department remains committed to holding violent offenders accountable and keeping our neighborhoods safe.” 

Officers responded to reports of shots fired in the area of 375 Smith Street and learned that an adult male victim had been shot during the incident and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

An extensive investigation conducted by Providence Police detectives included witness interviews, surveillance video review, vehicle identification, and evidence gathered throughout the course of the investigation. Detectives determined that the incident stemmed from an ongoing personal dispute between individuals known to one another. 

As a result of the investigation, 31-year-old Schmitt A. Prado of Providence has been charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon (firearm), Felony Assault with Conspiracy, Possession of a Pistol Without a License, and Firing a Weapon in a Compact Area.

Investigators determined that Prado participated in the assault and allegedly discharged a firearm during the altercation. 

27-year-old Freile Perez Fajardo of Providence has been charged with Felony Assault with Conspiracy. 

According to investigators, Fajardo allegedly initiated the physical assault on the victim prior to the shooting. 

The victim survived the incident and received medical treatment for injuries sustained during the assault. 

The investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible. The matter was referred to the City’s Board of Licenses.